Course Information
Camp Topics
Age groups are based on the camper's age as of June 2, 2025.
Classification Ages 5-10:
Weeks of June 2-6, June 23-37, and July 21-25
During Classification week, campers will dive into the fascinating world of how animals are grouped based on their unique traits. From mammals to reptiles, birds to amphibians, your young zoologist will discover what makes each group special. Through hands-on activities, up-close animal encounters, and engaging games, they’ll uncover what sets each animal group apart. Campers will be separated by age (5-6, 7-8, and 9-10) to ensure activities are tailored to their level, making it a fun-filled week of learning and discovery!
Saving Species Ages 5-10:
Weeks of June 9-12, July 7-11, July 28 - August 1
Get ready to become a wildlife conservation hero! During Saving Species week, campers will dive into the critical topic of wildlife conservation. Campers will learn about the IUCN Red List and how animals are classified as threatened, endangered, or extinct, all while discovering the importance of protecting our planet’s biodiversity. Through hands-on activities, up-close animal encounters, and engaging games, they’ll explore how we can help prevent extinction and make a difference for wildlife. This camp will also feature our Future for Wildlife programs and partnerships, inspiring campers to take action and advocate for a better tomorrow! Campers will be separated by age (5-6, 7-8, and 9-10) to ensure activities are tailored to their level, making it a fun-filled week of learning and discovery!
Saving Species Ages 11-12:
Weeks of June 9-13, June 23.27, July 14-18, July 28 - August 1
Step into the shoes of a conservationist during Saving Species: Fieldwork and Advocacy week! Designed for older campers, this program dives deeper into the efforts being made to save wildlife. Campers will explore how fieldwork and research help scientists monitor species classified as threatened, endangered, or extinct on the IUCN Red List. Through interactive activities, up-close animal encounters, and real-world conservation projects, campers will gain insight into how advocacy and action can make a lasting impact. With a special focus on the six projects featured in our Future for Wildlife program, they’ll leave inspired to be champions for wildlife conservation!
Curious Creatures Ages 5-10:
Weeks of June 16-20, July 14-18, August 4-8
During Curious Creatures week, kids will dive into the fascinating world of the most unique and extraordinary animals on the planet. From unusual adaptations to surprising behaviors, your young zoologist will discover what makes these creatures so curious and special. Through hands-on activities, up-close animal encounters, and engaging games, they’ll uncover the amazing secrets behind these one-of-a-kind animals. Campers will be separated by age (5-6, 7-8, and 9-10) to ensure activities are tailored to their level, making it a fun-filled week of learning and exploration!
"Zoo" Done It?
Ages 11-12: Weeks of June 2-6, June 16-20, July 7-11, July 21-25, August 4-8
Ages 13-14: Weeks of June 9-13, June 23-27, July 14-18, July 28 - August 1
An anonymous insider has reached out, and against all odds, they’ve picked the Summer Day Camp kids as the detectives for this high-stakes case! During "Zoo" Done It? week, campers ages 11-12 and 13-14 will step into the role of wildlife investigators to solve the mysterious disappearance of an animal before it’s lost to the illegal wildlife trade. Using clues tied to the Zoo’s history and our Future for Wildlife partners, campers will work together to crack the case. With puzzles to solve, evidence to analyze, and a race against time, this thrilling adventure will teach critical thinking, teamwork, and the real-world challenges of preventing illegal wildlife trade. Will your camper save the day? The mystery awaits!
Counselor in Training Ages 13-14:
Weeks of June 16-20, July 7-11, July 21-25
Take your first steps toward becoming a camp counselor! During Counselor in Training week, teens ages 13-14 will develop leadership skills and gain hands-on experience working with younger campers. Through team-building activities, workplace skills development, and a behind-the-scenes look at how zoo camps are run, participants will learn how to lead with confidence, assist in activities, and serve as role models for younger age groups. This camp is perfect for teens who are passionate about animals, enjoy working with kids, and want to build valuable skills for the future—all while having a great time at the Zoo!
Healthy Planet, Healthy You Ages 5-12
Holiday Week June 30 - July 3
Discover how the health of humans, wildlife, and the environment are all connected! During
Healthy Planet, Healthy You week, campers ages 5-12 will explore the vital role we play in keeping ourselves and our planet thriving. Through hands-on activities, up-close animal encounters, and engaging games, campers will learn how protecting wildlife and caring for the environment also supports human health. From reducing waste to creating habitats, they’ll uncover simple ways to make a big impact for a healthier future for all. Campers will be grouped by age to ensure activities are tailored to their level, making it a fun and educational adventure for everyone!